Pursuing a college degree is about more than advancing a career or opening doors to new opportunities. For Carrie Hernandez, earning her Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Abilene Christian University (ACU) represents something much more meaningful: the opportunity to turn her personal experiences into a future dedicated to serving others.
As a mother of five teenage boys, a full-time employee and an online student, Carrie balances numerous responsibilities each day. Despite the demands of her busy schedule, she remains determined to achieve her educational goals and follow her calling to support individuals who have experienced trauma or are in recovery.
While Carrie’s journey has been filled with challenges, her faith, perseverance and the support of ACU’s online community have helped her continue moving forward. Through it all, she is learning that her past doesn’t define her future, but can instead inspire the difference she hopes to make in the lives of others.
Finding Faith, Purpose and a New Beginning
For much of her life, Carrie faced hardships and challenges that now fuel her to help others. She had an unstable upbringing, growing up in and out of foster care before later becoming a victim of human trafficking as a teenager. In 2021, she was able to escape human trafficking and was introduced to Christ and two nonprofit organizations that changed her life. That same year, Carrie decided to give her life to God, and as her faith grew, so did her desire to pursue a career where she could serve others navigating similar experiences.
Carrie came to Lubbock, Texas, with the help of a nonprofit organization called Open Door, a church and community center that opens its doors to the homeless, the poor, and victims of trafficking. She later transitioned to Voice of Hope in 2022, which provides free, confidential assistance to survivors of abuse and trafficking in the Lubbock area. At Voice of Hope, Carrie received the care she needed and connected with an advocate who encouraged her to consider ACU.
“She told me to apply and that I would love it, and she was right!” Carrie recalled.
As a social work student, Carrie is gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges individuals and communities face. She’s developing the practical skills that will help her turn her passion for advocacy into action. The connection between coursework and professional preparation is becoming clearer with every assignment. What she describes as “puzzle pieces”, each course is teaching her how to approach complex situations with compassion and develop strategies that benefit those facing adversity.
One of the most meaningful aspects of her online learning experience with ACU has been the encouragement she’s received from faculty and staff. “I haven’t had any bad professors during my time at ACU,” Carrie shared. That support has also extended beyond academic guidance, as she appreciates being a part of a university community where spiritual development is woven into the education.
“ACU doesn’t let you fail as a student or in your faith,” Carrie said.
Whether she’s working through assignments, navigating personal responsibilities or seeking spiritual encouragement, Carrie knows ACU’s faculty and staff want to see her succeed. She also credits her financial advisor for providing consistent support as she progresses through her degree program. Carrie currently holds a 3.66 GPA, which further solidifies her dedication to her academic and personal goals.
Turning Personal Experience Into An Opportunity to Serve
Although earning her bachelor’s degree is a top priority right now, Carrie’s ambitions go far beyond graduation.
After completing her undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue graduate studies and expand her opportunities to advocate for those in need. Her long-term goal is to open a center that provides support and resources so people can feel heard, valued, and empowered in order to move forward in their lives. Having felt the power and compassion from advocates, Carrie hopes to bring that same feeling into the lives of those who’ve escaped traumatic experiences and situations.
For Carrie, social work is more than a professional pathway; it’s a chance to transform her experience into a source of hope for individuals who may be struggling to envision a different future. With each course she completes, she’s moving closer to making that vision a reality.
“Your Past Doesn’t Define Your Future”
When asked what advice she would offer prospective students considering ACU in-person or online, Carrie’s message centers on hope, acceptance and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to grow. She wants others to know their circumstances and past experiences don’t have to determine what they’re capable of achieving.
At ACU, Carrie found a community where she feels accepted, supported and encouraged to follow her dreams without any judgment. Her journey from overcoming her past to preparing for a career in social work demonstrates how education, faith and perseverance can be a catalyst for change. As she continues to balance motherhood, work and her studies, Carrie remains focused on the future she’s building, one shaped not by her past but by the difference she hopes to make.
For Carrie Hernandez, her bachelor’s is more than a personal achievement but a step toward fulfilling her calling, empowering others and showing that no matter where your story begins, there’s always an opportunity to write a new chapter.
If you’re passionate about a career in social work, explore ACU’s online B.S. in Social Work program and discover how you can take the next step toward your educational and professional goals.